Three poetry and book events for the week of June 30-July 6

It's high summer as we head into the Fourth of July holiday, when author tours take a break -- just like the rest of us. But in the meantime, we can hear poetry to raise a fist to, goof off literarally or see an art show that celebrates books and writers. Check 'em out.

Veteran SlamNuban and Aurora Poet Laureate Jovan Mays has put together a fine collection of local slam poetry champions, musicians and comics for Stonewall of the West, a poetic nod to LGBT History Month. From two-time Women of the World Poetry Slam winner Dominique Christina to local comedian Kristin Rand, this group will have you laughing and crying and cheering for more.

Think you know everything about literature and books? BookBar, Tennyson Street's novel wine-pouring bookstore, invites folks to compete for the title of Nerd of the Week, a chance to pick a book from the BookBar reject pile and -- for the overall winner -- a free drink. Not that you can't imbibe cheaply if you lose: The bar offers Tuesday night drink specials for everyone.

Curator Eric Matelski was given free run of the historic Milheim Mansion by its tenant, Lighthouse Writers Workshop, to fill the rooms with bookish art by Denver artists. Matelski will lead a tour through the show, mixing words, art and a touch of local history along the way.